BlackRock is moving quickly to ensure its iShares Bitcoin ETP is ready for UK retail investors as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) eases restrictions next month. From October 8, retail buyers will once again be allowed access to crypto exchange traded notes (ETNs), aligning the UK with major European markets where such products are already available.

The iShares Bitcoin ETP, currently listed across France, Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland, has so far only been open to professional investors in the UK. A London Stock Exchange (LSE) listing combined with FCA approval would mark the first opportunity for retail clients to directly access BlackRock’s product. Competitors such as Fidelity International, Invesco and WisdomTree already offer bitcoin ETFs in London, though retail participation has been restricted until now.

BlackRock’s U.S. iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF has already amassed $84 billion in assets since its January 2024 launch, making it the world’s largest crypto ETF. A UK retail rollout is expected to spark fresh demand in the market.